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2w ago

Chris Bassitt Finalizes One-Year Orioles Deal as Club Weighs Six-Man Rotation

Bassitt chose Baltimore for a clear shot at a title, citing Pete Alonso’s arrival.

Orioles infielder Coby Mayo fields a groundball at third base during infield drills on Friday at Ed Smith Stadium. (Matt Weyrich/Staff)
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Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias speaks with coaches on the bench at Ed Smith Stadium ahead of a live bullpen session during spring training. (Matt Weyrich/Staff)
Sep 12, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Chris Bassitt (40) throws a pitch against the Baltimore Orioles during the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images.

Overview

  • Right-hander Chris Bassitt signed a one-year, $18.5 million contract that includes a $3 million signing bonus and up to $500,000 for reaching 27 starts.
  • Speaking at spring training in Sarasota, Bassitt said the World Series pursuit drove his decision and credited Alonso’s presence for tipping the scale.
  • Bassitt adds durability after 170-plus innings in 2025 and a 1.04 ERA in seven postseason relief outings during Toronto’s run to the Fall Classic.
  • The signing gives Baltimore six credible starters for five spots — including Bassitt, Shane Baz, Trevor Rogers, Zach Eflin and Kyle Bradish — with manager Craig Albernaz noting a six-man rotation is on the table.
  • The move caps an aggressive offseason that brought Alonso on a five-year deal and added Baz, Eflin and relievers Ryan Helsley and Andrew Kittredge, though observers still question the absence of a true ace and note health risks in the rotation.